Jessie Elisabeth Downing

Jessie Elisabeth Downing, 90, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Thursday, March 05, 2026, at Westwood Hills Nursing Center.

Jessie was born on February 20, 1936, to Jesse and Fannie (Whitt) Sinks in Williamsville, Missouri. She married Jack Downing on May 10, 1952, in Piggott, Arkansas.

Jessie was a kind and caring woman who loved her family dearly. Jessie's big heart didn't stop with her family; her warm and welcoming soul was a blessing to friends, neighbors, and many community members as well. Some of Jessie's fondest memories were of camping with her family. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, reading, scrapbooking, and completing puzzles. Jessie had accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior and was ready to "go home". She will be missed by many.

Jessie is survived by her son, Jack "Buzz" Downing and wife Linda; daughter, Linda Downing Brown; two brothers, Dennis Sinks and Dale (Lois) Sinks; sister, Helen Chittendon; son-in-law, Mark Russell; along with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild.

Jessie was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Fannie Sinks; husband, Jack Downing; four children, Patricia Ice, Jamie "Buckwheat" Downing, Julie Russell, and Jerry Downing; three brothers, Ira Lee Sinks, Ted Sinks, and Jack Sinks; four sisters, Thea Smith, Mary Jo Bailey, Wilma Hesselrode, and Brenda Sinks.

A private celebration of life will be held at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield where she will be laid to rest next to her husband.

The Downing family would like to express their gratitude to Westwood Hills Nursing Center for their care and compassion during Jessie’s time with them.

Memorial donations can be made to UCAN, 2620 North Westwood Boulevard, Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Mrs. Jessie Downing. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.